'Rambo' rights in question

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The Weinsteins are going Rambo over "Rambo IV" distribution rights.

In 2004, rights to produce the sequel were transferred by the Weinstein Co. to a predecessor of film producer Nu Image, which has the action sequel in active development with Sylvester Stallone to reprise his usual topline role as a butt-kicking mercenary. But in a suit filed Friday in Los Angeles Superior Court, the Weinsteins claim that Nu Image recently offered distribution rights to Lionsgate, even though the Weinstein Co. is supposed to have first right of refusal on the franchise.

"When advised by the Weinstein Co. of its violation ... Nu Image purported to comply (by) making an unreasonable and bad faith proposal to the Weinstein Co. with respect to the potential acquisition by the Weinstein Co. of domestic or worldwide distribution rights in the picture," the Weinstein lawsuit states.

The Weinstein Co. is represented in the case by Bert Fields and Jeffrey Spitz of Greenberg Glusker Fields Claman & Machtinger.

The suit seeks a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction preventing Nu Image from entering into any third-party agreement for "Rambo IV" without approval from the Weinstein Co. It names Nu Image as a sole defendant.